New president for club

The Presidential change-over event for the Rotary Club of Llantwit Major began on Monday last with the traditional Service of Dedication held at St Donats Church and conducted by Rtn. The Rev. D. Vivian Ginn.  St Illtud's Choir and Friends conducted by Keith Young and accompanied by Lynn Brown provided the music to the simple but meaningful service.  After the service those attending went to the West House Hotel, Llantwit Major for dinner and the installation of the new President.  Out-going President John Clarke gave a summary of main events the club had undertaken during his year of office.  These included the support of local and national charities, raising awareness in the town to the dangers of high blood pressure, the purchase of two Shelterboxes for international disaster appeals and providing transport for the partially sighted.  Young people in the community had been encouraged by the provision of competitions for excellence in catering and music. He was also proud of the fact that Interact, the Rotary inspired organisation for young people, was now well established at Llantwit Major Comprehensive School with the branch becoming the largest in the UK.  They were, with some help from Rotary particularly Rtn. Don Carsley, organising their club's first ever Peace Conference which will take place this summer at the school.

John Clarke after thanking all who had supported him during his busy year, especially his wife Lynda, installed Christine James as the club's new President.  This was the second term as President for Mrs James who had previously held the post in 2004.  Christine and her husband John - also a Rotary Club member  - work with the well-known local firm of W. James & Sons, Fonmon.  She thanked the outgoing President for his excellent year of achievement and the Rev. Vivian Ginn, Keith Young and Lynn Brown for providing the beautiful service.  She also welcomed Jeffrey Robinson, Chairman of the Probus Club of Llantwit Major and his wife Anne as guests for the evening.  She was looking forward to the year ahead.  Other officers include President Elect Mary Noyes and President Nominee David Rogers.

The Rotary Club of Llantwit Major, established in 1981, has more than thirty members and meets every Monday evening at the West House Hotel.  Mrs James said: "Those interested in joining the club were always welcome to come along to see what we  do."